International Students and Scholars

Assessing Travel

Resources, information, and guidelines to help you assess your travel risks

Breadcrumb

Assessing Your Travel Risk

While many students and scholars successfully re-enter the U.S. successfully every day, it is extremely important to consider travel carefully, especially as U.S. travel and immigration regulations can happen suddenly and with little advance notice. ISSS strongly recommends that you consider the necessity of any personal travel outside of the U.S., and to assess risks accordingly. Use the information below and consult your ISSS advisor when making travel decisions.

Traveling on University funds or for University-related activities? You are now required to register your travel in TravelSafe before finalizing your travel plans. You can also review the resources available through Brown Travel to assist you in your planning.

Risk Factors	Points to Consider
Is there a travel ban in place for your country?	Persons from countries under a travel ban are advised to not travel outside the U.S. See our June 6, 2025 announcement for the most recent information about affected countries, and exceptions.
Will you need a new visa to return to the U.S.?	Due to enhanced visa scrutiny and social media vetting, travel risk is significantly increased if you need a new visa to return to the U.S. Visa delays and wait times are extended, as almost all visa applicants are also now required to undergo visa interviews. Visa applicants are now required to apply for a visa in their country of citizenship or legal residence. Applications in third countries are not possible. Some applicants may be subject to administrative processing background checks, even if prior visa applications were successful. Read our Renewing Your Visa page for more information.
Do you have prior interactions with U.S. law enforcement?	Prior interactions with U.S. law enforcement, especially those leading to an arrest or citation, may significantly increase your travel risk. Guidance from an immigration attorney is strongly recommended.
Are you concerned about your social media activity?	Social media accounts are now under increased vetting and scrutiny. If you have concerns about your social media activity, talk to ISSS or an immigration attorney.
Have you engaged in unauthorized employment?	Evidence of unauthorized employment can increase the risk of visa denials or barred entry into the U.S. Contact ISSS or talk to an immigration attorney for guidance.
Are you no longer in valid status?	Persons who are no longer have valid immigration status may be found ineligible for new visas or for re-entry to the U.S. Contact ISSS or an immigration attorney for further guidance.
Are you from or planning travel to a country designated as a ‘State Sponsor of Terrorism’?	Travel to a country designated as a state sponsor of terrorism is not recommended without prior consultation with an immigration attorney.